Dr EVATT (Barton) (AttorneyGeneral)
. - The honorable member for Melbourne (Mr. Calwell) suggested that the imposition of a penalty for " any act or thing preparatory to the doing of any act or thing the doing of which would constitute the offence of black marketing " is unnecessary and undesirable. After consideration, I agree with his contention. The honorable member for Darling (Mr. Clark) cited a good case for punishment, but that will be covered by the general provisions of Commonwealth law, which make an attempt to commit an offence itself an offence. I accept the suggestion of the honorable member for Melbourne, and ask honorable members to vote against the clause.

Clause negatived.

Clauses 9 to 13 agreed to.

Clause 14 (Particulars of conviction may be broadcast).

Dr. EVATT(Barton- AttorneyGeneral [3.41]. - I was impressed by the comments of the honorable member for Cook (Mr. Sheehan) on the content of the announcement for broadcasting, but this provision will be utilized only when it is deemed necessary in extreme cases. I do not think that there will be any lack of publicity in the case of a conviction, but I hope that it will not be necessary to use the provision. The honorable member's suggestion will receive consideration.